The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) has apprehended a suspect in Pateros in connection with the alleged kidnapping of 35-year-old accountant Irene Melican, who remains missing.
Melican reportedly met the suspect through a dating application in September and has not been seen since.
Authorities recovered Melican’s white SUV in possession of the suspect.
During his arrest, the suspect reportedly attempted to assault a public attorney with a fork during the inquest but was subdued by NBI agents.
The suspect now faces multiple charges including kidnapping, serious illegal detention, car theft, and violation of the Access Devices Act.
According to NBI-National Capital Region Chief Rommel Vallejo, Melican’s friend attempted to contact her via Facebook, but the call was answered by a child before the suspect took the phone away.
Closed-circuit television footage from June 13 captured the suspect purchasing cell phones in San Juan with two women, using Melican’s credit card and identification card, albeit with a different ID photo.
Additionally, the suspect allegedly withdrew P3.5 million from a joint bank account belonging to the victim and her mother.
Melican was last heard from on June 3 when the suspect called her, claiming to have been in an accident and needing help.
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